HHS releases guide for tapering long-term opioid use

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) published a guide to help clinicians taper the use of opioids by patients who have been using the drugs over a long period of time. Compiled from published guidelines and practices endorsed in the peer-reviewed literature, the guide covers shared decision-making with the patient; issues to consider when initiating a change in dosing; and issues to consider as a patient’s dosage is being tapered, including the need to treat symptoms of opioid withdrawal and provide behavioral health support. The guide is one of many opioid-related resources available through the HHS website. (HHS news release, 10/10/19)